Genetics Counselor -Hereditary Cancer

Baylor Scott & White Health•Dallas, TX

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Hereditary Cancer Genetic Counselor provides specialized genetic counseling, education, and support to patients and families who may be at increased risk for hereditary cancer syndromes. This role evaluates personal and family history, assesses hereditary cancer risk, discusses genetic testing options, and helps patients understand genetic test results and their implications. The Genetic Counselor works closely with patients, families, physicians, and multidisciplinary care teams to provide personalized risk assessment and counseling, support informed decision-making, and coordinate appropriate follow-up care and resources.

Requirements

Advanced knowledge of human genetics, hereditary cancer syndromes, cancer genetics, inheritance patterns, genetic testing, and genetic terminology.
Ability to interpret complex genetic and medical information and communicate it effectively to patients, families, and healthcare providers.
Strong understanding of genetic counseling methods, techniques, and ethical considerations.
Ability to explain genetic testing, test results, cancer risks, recurrence risks, and management recommendations in clear, patient-friendly language.
Strong critical-thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to establish trust and provide compassionate support to patients and families navigating complex or potentially life-changing genetic information.
Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, particularly when documenting complex patient and family histories.
Ability to maintain a calm, professional, and supportive approach when working with patients and families experiencing stress or uncertainty.
General computer proficiency, including electronic medical documentation, data entry, required software applications, email, information security, and other clinical technology systems.
Master's degree in Genetic Counseling or related field from an accredited program.
Less than 1 year of experience may be considered.
Board Certification: ABGC Board Certification preferred; candidates must obtain ABGC Board Certification within two years of hire, if not already certified.
Must meet applicable state requirements for genetic counselor licensure.

Nice To Haves

Clinical experience, internship, or training in cancer genetics/hereditary cancer counseling is preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive hereditary cancer risk assessments using personal and family medical histories, medical records, pathology reports, laboratory results, and other relevant clinical information.
Evaluate patients for potential hereditary cancer syndromes and identify individuals and families who may benefit from genetic testing.
Provide pre- and post-test genetic counseling, including education regarding genetic conditions, inheritance patterns, cancer risks, testing options, and potential implications of genetic results.
Discuss the risks, benefits, limitations, and potential outcomes of genetic testing to support informed patient decision-making.
Interpret and communicate genetic test results to patients, families, and referring providers in clear, understandable language.
Develop and communicate individualized cancer risk-management recommendations based on personal and family history and genetic testing results.
Explain cancer screening, prevention, surveillance, and risk-reduction options as appropriate.
Help patients and families understand the potential impact of hereditary cancer conditions on themselves and other family members.
Provide counseling regarding familial implications and recommendations for at-risk relatives and cascade testing when appropriate.
Maintain accurate and comprehensive medical records and prepare detailed genetic counseling consultation notes and reports for patients and referring physicians.
Collaborate with physicians, oncology providers, nurses, laboratory professionals, and other members of the healthcare team to coordinate patient care.
Provide information regarding financial assistance, community resources, support organizations, and other available patient and family resources.
Assist with coordination of genetic counseling appointments, testing, follow-up, and communication with patients, families, and referring providers.
Maintain current knowledge of hereditary cancer syndromes, genetic testing technologies, evolving guidelines, and advances in cancer genetics.
Participate in professional education, outreach, community programs, and other activities that support awareness and understanding of hereditary cancer risk.